Pan frying is a cooking method that involves cooking food in a small amount of oil or fat in a shallow pan over medium to high heat. This technique allows for even cooking and browning, making it ideal for items like meats, vegetables, and eggs. The food is typically cooked on one side until browned, then flipped to cook the other side. To achieve the best results, it's important to preheat the pan and use the right amount of oil to prevent sticking. Common pans used for this method include skillets and frying pans, which are designed to distribute heat evenly.